Those downwind of the volcano on catchment this message is for you!

Rainwater Harvesters must add minerals to their tanks.

Here's why:  The effects on rainwater harvesting (for domestic use) are significant for those living downwind of the eruption.
​Increased levels of acidity for rainfall events are mainly due to the elevated sulfur emissions (presenting as sulfuric acid) as well as additional concentrations of carbonic acid. Acidic rain will eat through brass releasing lead into the water.

An eruption started at Kilauea Volcano, Halema'uma'u Crater
​around 3:15pm HST September 10, 2023.

When pH measurements for rainfall are on the order of 4-5, neutralizing the acid levels can be handled with the addition of baking soda monthly at a rate of about 1 pound dissolved for every 3,000 gallons of water in a catchment tank (raising alkalinity 20 ppm). Monitoring of the alkalinity levels should be used to maintain acceptable water quality in the range of 40-80 ppm. If using pH test strips, a good rule of thumb would be to maintain a pH lever greater than 6.5.

So, what should you be concerned about when it comes to your health?

Acid Rain by far is the highest concern due to the leaching of heavy metals from plumbing components into your water supply (copper, lead, cadmium, zinc, iron, etc.)

Sulfate Levels – baking soda converts this into a soluble salt similar to Epsom Salt. If left untreated, high sulfate levels promote bacteria growth resulting in a distinctive rotten egg smell.

Concrete Tanks – if you rely on a concrete tank to neutralize your rainwater without extra treatment, think again. Maintaining an alkalinity level of 80-120 ppm in concrete tanks is recommended to prevent structural damage.

NOTE: You’ll need to test the pH levels each time it rains to know how much more baking soda to use or add Uncle Tilo’s Acid Rain Mineral Pack which dissolve continuously.  It may take up to a week to regulate the pH, during this time you may need to add baking soda along with the Acid Rain Mineral Pack.
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Scroll down on this link to learn more about Acid Rain Mineral Pack: https://www.tiloscleanwater.com/products.html